RARE**C1873 British Kynoch Gun Factory converted 11mm / .43 Mauser Centre Fire Obsolete Calibre French Military Chassepot Model 1873 (M1866) Rifle. Sn 17469:5 rifle Single Shot .43 Mauser Rifle

**RARE**C1873 British Kynoch Gun Factory converted 11mm / .43 Mauser Centre Fire Obsolete Calibre French Military Chassepot Model 1873 (M1866) Rifle. Sn 17469:5 17469:5

This is a British Kynoch Gun Factory converted French Military Chassepot M1866 rifle. After France's defeat in the Franco-Prussian War of 1871, the French government attributed a large portion of blame for the their loss on the Chassepot rifle's poor reliability on the battlefield. At this time the Chassepot utilised the needle fire system, French officials were convinced of the need to adopt a metallic cartridge centre fire system. In 1873, France awarded a contracted to the Kynoch Gun Factory, Aston here in the UK to modify and converted their remaining Chassepot rifles for centre fire. These modified rifles were designated the Chassepot Model 1873 rifle and can be identified by the markings on the barrel and receiver. In 1874 the French adopted the Gras Model 1874 rifle, although Kynoch continued reworking the Chassepot's until the late 1870s. During WWI many of these converted Chassepots were put back into service. It has a 32” barrel. The bore has staining and residue consistent with age and use. It has steel furniture. It has the correct Kynoch Aston factory & calibre markings (all illustrated). The original stock is walnut and has just bumps, knocks and bruises to be expected with age and use. The bolt action loading and firing mechanisms work correctly. It is fitted with sling swivels, cleaning rod, ladder rear sight and block & blade fore sight. The price for this rare piece includes UK delivery. N.B As an antique obsolete calibre weapon no licence is required to own this item in the UK if retained as a part of a collection or display. Sn 17469:5

£1125